Strain Effect in MgB2/Stainless Steel Superconducting Tape

The influence of mechanical strain on the critical current (Ic) is investigated for MgB2/stainless steel (SUS316) superconducting tapes. The tapes are fabricated by using 'powder in tube' method and deformation process without any heat treatment. The tensile axial strain along tape length is successfully induced to the sample by using a U-shape holder made of stainless steel (SUS304). Two samples are examined at 4.2 K in 5 T (B is applied perpendicular to the tape surface). While the initial Ic at zero external strain state (Ic0) varies (30.4 and 33.3 A), normalized Ic (Ic/Ic0) vs. external strain relations fall on the same curve. Linear increase of Ic is observed from zero external strain state to 0.5% strain (107% of Ic0). Rapid and large degradation occurs at the strain exceeding 0.4-0.5%. High durability against stress can be expected for MgB2/stainless steel superconducting tapes.